Monetizing Content Writing
So you want to learn how to monetize content writing
Content writing is a highly sought after skill and there are plenty of ways to earn money by writing. But there is a catch here - the competition is tough, there are scams and you may not be paid even after writing a lot of content - courtesy of scammers. This guide walks you through the process of making money writing content. It takes time and there is no shortcut.
First Things First - What is Content Writing?
Content writing is the process of visualizing, creating and sharing written content across online platforms. This includes producing articles, blog posts, product descriptions and promotional copy that cater to audiences. The primary objective of content writing is to enlighten, educate or influence readers while serving a multitude of purposes including:
- Creating brand awareness
- Generating leads
- Increasing website traffic
- Improving rankings on search engines
- Establishing trust
Types of Content Writing
When you say content writing, most people think blogs. But content writing is more than just blogs. It also includes the following:
- Video scripts
- Keynote speeches
- Email newsletters
- Podcasts
- Social Media posts
- Landing pages
- Video descriptions
- Web page copies
- Blog
- White papers
Earning Money Writing For Clients
- Understand the kind of content you like writing
- Learn SEO, Sales and Copywriting
- Join platforms like Textborker, Medium, Scripted and Copify where you can get paid for writing.
- Keep your LinkedIn profile updated.
- Do not pay money to learn to be a content writer.
- Learn how to pitch and how much to charge.
- Keep up with the trends.
Earning Money Writing For Yourself
The second part of the process is to write for yourself. Again, follow the steps given below:
- Decide what kind of content you like writing - You need to have a blog/website where you will post this content. Niching down helps but it takes a while to understand what content makes you happy.
- Get a website and start an email list - Your website is where the content goes. Start an email list. You will need it to send people your newsletter.
- Write for your newsletter and Your website - You need to be regular with both.
- Learn Copywriting, Sales and SEO - SEO is what gets views on your page. You will need to learn it. Copywriting will keep the readers hooked and sales will help earn money.
- Use Social Media - Social media is where you will be visible and post the link to your content. This link will take people to your website. Be visible on Instagram, LinkedIn, X and any other place where you are comfortable. Grow your audience.
- Work out the details - So have you niched down? What products do you want to recommend (affiliate marketing)? How are you going to price them? What is it that you want to sell - sponsorships, or courses or ads or a digital product? There are multiple things - you need to see what works best for you.
- Keep Yourself Updated - The process of learning never ends. You need to keep evolving and learning.
- Repeat - Iron out the flaws/problems in your process.
Skills Needed to Make Money From Content Writing
- Ability to Hook Readers - You have 2 seconds to hook the reader and your first line must be the hook. It should convey the message. Understand the importance of a compelling introduction so that your reader does not leave the page and go elsewhere.
- Creativity - You need to be creative to hold the reader’s attention and compel them to continue reading. Offer a unique perspective and keep the content fresh and original.
- Mastering the Brand Voice - Adapt your writing style to match the brand’s voice. Understand the brand’s personality. Is it casual, professional, formal or conversational - That is the tone you must set.
- Attention to Details - Your grammar, spelling and punctuation should be precise. Nobody likes reading a badly written article with mistakes.
- SEO - Finally, SEO! This is a crucial part of content writing. Use relevant keywords, backlinks and meta tags to drive traffic organically and improve visibility.
Conclusion
If you are inexperienced, do not worry. Just start writing and be visible. The most important thing is to niche down and be visible to people. Find your voice and share your expertise. Write blog posts to create a portfolio. And then, start pitching. Be consistent and persistent. Don’t be discouraged if you are rejected initially.